Eagles Chris Long honored for putting money where his mouth is

To nobody’s surprise, Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Chris Long on Thursday afternoon was named the winner of this year’s NFLPA’s Byron “Whizzer” White Community MVP Award for having the most positive impact on local communities.

Long earlier this season decided to donate all 16 of his game checks to charity, including his foundation, whose mission is to “support bright futures for communities and the individuals that make up those communities.”

Earlier on Thursday, before being named the winner, Long talked during his team’s final media session leading up to Super Bowl LII about the satisfaction derived from his actions.

Photo Gallery: The lead-up to Super Bowl LII on Sunday

(Associated Press)

“I’m not the first guy to donate a lot of money in the world or in the NFL,” he said. “So I don’t want to make it out like it’s something special. What made it special was the fans, meeting myself and my foundation halfway and doubling that investment in educational equity.”

Long had made enough and saved enough money throughout his NFL career to make what he did this season possible.

He also correctly figured the publicity generated by his immense donation would inspire others to give, which is exactly what happened. Fan donations to the Pledge 10 for Tomorrow campaign, which is associated with the Chris Long Foundation, totaled $1.3 million this season.